Jack Edward Smith

Jack Edward Smith, age 87 of Hastings, Michigan, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2017 at Thornapple Manor.

He was born on April 20, 1929 at Pennock Hospital in Hastings, MI. He was the son of Edward and Bessie (Gower) Smith. Jack graduated in 1947 from Hastings High School.

Jack proudly served his country during the Korean War. After discharge he returned to his computer room job at Hastings Manufacturing and worked there for 43 years, until his retirement.

On September 17, 1950 he married the love of his life, Beverly J. Johnson. God blessed them with 66 years of happiness. Jack was a member of the First United Methodist Church, his entire life. He was a member of Kiwanis, at one time President, also a member of the Hastings High School Alumni Board, serving as President and then as Treasurer, and was also on the Riverside Cemetery Board. He was a Cub Scout Leader, served on the PTA Board and Hastings High School Band Committee.

He enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting and traveling. Jack also enjoyed playing games and cards with his grandchildren, family and close friends.

Jack was preceded in death by his younger brother, Kenneth James Smith, his parents, Edward Rufus and Bessie Irene Smith, and sister-in-law, Leona Annette Shriver.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly and his adored children, sons, Brian Lee (Lorree) Smith of Charlotte, Bruce Edward Smith of Royal Oak, daughter, Brenda (Con) Ahearn of Sterling Heights, twelve grandchildren, Stephen Smith, Andrew Smith, Kara (Capt. Scott) Hall, Jacquelyn Smith, Christinia Smith, Bud (Tiffany) Ahearn, Jonathan, Jack, Thomas, and Joseph Ahearn, three great-grandchildren: Xavier Ahearn, Ethan Ahearn and Melina Ahearn, brother-in-laws, Richard Shriver and Lee Tracy (Maureen), and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Great Lakes Hospice and to the staff, caring nurses, and aids at Thornapple Manor.